As Cuba Suffers Through Its ‘Dark Age,’ the U.S. Must Support a Democratic Transition

Cuba is enduring what many rightly call its “Dark Age.” A worsening humanitarian crisis, deepening repression, and mass exodus have left the island reeling. The Cuban people face empty shelves, political persecution, and no hope of economic recovery under an entrenched authoritarian regime.

Instead of addressing the nation’s urgent needs, Cuba’s rulers have once again chosen survival over reform. The Trump administration’s recent 90-day pause in foreign aid enforcement briefly lifted some international pressure on the regime. But that reprieve only served to spotlight the government’s chronic failure to govern effectively — and its continued disregard for basic human dignity.

The regime clings to outdated Marxist ideology while presiding over a collapsed economy and a staggering $40 billion debt. Once a regional agricultural leader, Cuba now cannot feed its people. Hunger and malnutrition are rampant. The regime blames the U.S. embargo, yet it continues to rely heavily on American imports of chicken, grains, and cooking oil — highlighting both hypocrisy and incompetence.

But amid this suffering, a spark of hope remains. Dissidents, civil society leaders, and independent thinkers are increasingly organizing and calling for change. Recently, Cuba’s Catholic bishops issued a powerful public statement condemning the island’s dysfunction and urging national reflection and reform. These voices are courageous, but they need support.

The United States has a moral responsibility — and a strategic opportunity — to stand with the Cuban people. Supporting a democratic transition is not about regime change by force. It’s about empowering Cubans to define their own future.

This support must be smart, targeted, and principled. The U.S. should increase assistance to Cuban civil society: independent media, grassroots organizations, churches, and human rights defenders. Educational programs, digital training, and humanitarian aid can equip the next generation of Cuban leaders with the tools they need to shape a new Cuba — one rooted in freedom, rule of law, and respect for human rights.

The U.S. must also work closely with international allies to build a coordinated response that pressures the regime while amplifying democratic voices. Silence, disengagement, or appeasement will only embolden repression. The Cuban people are not asking for interference — they are asking not to be forgotten.

Some may argue that the U.S. should stay out of Cuba’s internal affairs. But history teaches that when democracies remain silent in the face of tyranny, injustice spreads. America has always stood taller when it stands for freedom.

The Cuban people deserve the chance to pursue a better life without fear. They deserve the support of nations that believe in liberty. And they deserve the assurance that their cries for help are heard.

In this pivotal moment, the U.S. must reject complacency and reaffirm its commitment to Cuba’s democratic future. The path forward will be long and difficult, but it must be taken. Not just for the sake of Cuba, but for the sake of the values we claim to uphold.

Now is the time to help Cuba emerge from the shadows of dictatorship and step into the light of self-determination.

AUTHOR

Ted Babun

Teo A. Babun is president and CEO of Outreach Aid to the Americas (OAA), a nonprofit faith-based organization serving vulnerable communities across the Americas through humanitarian aid, development, and the defense of human rights. He is the author of several books, including “Faith and Freedom in Latin America.”

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